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Could There Be An Upset For Best Actress Oscar? Elle Yes

Meryl Streep is once again in the thick of the Academy Award conversation for Best Actress, but is she the right choice to include in our Oscar picks?

2017 Academy Award Nominees For Best Actress

Emma Stone, “La La Land” -563

Natalie Portman, “Jackie” +300

Isabelle Huppert, “Elle” +1152

Ruth Negga, “Loving” Field +3311

Meryl Streep, “Florence Foster Jenkins” Field +3311

As evidenced by its record-tying 14 nominations, it seems everyone is gaga over La La. Therefore, it is no wonder why the Oscar odds on Emma Stone are a prohibitive -563 at BookMaker for the lil’ darlin’ from the desert. Stone stole the show in the musical and was a major factor in the film’s critically acclaimed depiction of a struggling actress winning the hearts and minds of audiences everywhere.

Musicals are usually relegated to second-class status, but this year is different. That said, there have been whispers of an Oscar backlash with voters suddenly understanding that their unique eye for cinematic excellence is not so unique with everyone piling on the "La La Land" bandwagon. As cute, lovable and adorable as Stone’s performance was, we will eschew the saccharine and opt for something darker and highly toxic.

Isabelle Huppert’s rendering of Michèle Leblanc, a rape victim turned vigilante, is spellbinding and Huppert has been feted with an avalanche of awards for her portrayal. It should be noted that her film "Elle" is only represented at the Academy Awards in this category, as Huppert carried the weighty script on her slender shoulders. At a healthy return of +1152, you are getting substantial value in your Oscar picks with Huppert.